"service should be congratulated"

This was my second surgery at GRI, specifically ward 56 B. I am an NHS staff member at another hospital so my observations are professional and personal.

From arriving at the ward for my surgery and to discharge I was kept fully informed by all staff. The staff are well trained, kind and considerate. I was visited and examined prior to surgery by several doctors and anaesthetic staff who explained in detail what to expect. I was encouraged to ask questions throughout. The nursing staff took a thorough admission history, some of which asked what was important to me? How would I like to be addressed? Foods I didn't like etc. The Theatre staff were friendly and professional taking their time with Anaesthetic tasks which made me feel relaxed and well cared for. The theatre recovery staff were equally friendly and professional.  I was eventually taken back to the ward fully awake and comfortable.  I was eventually visited by my surgeon and anaesthetist who updated me and informed me of follow up appointment and where to seek help after discharge if required. Throughout I received best practice and this service should be congratulated. 

However a couple of further observations. Ward 56 B is a busy surgical gynaecology ward and has open visiting from 11am following general hospital protocols. On occasions, I felt that this impinged on my privacy as I did not wish to discuss details with staff whilst other patients visitors were in the room. This is just my view and there were notices explaining visitors may be asked to leave for a while and mealtimes were protected. Lastly, it took a long time, 3hrs, to produce a discharge letter which meant that all exit doors were locked at 9 pm. This necessitated a long walk in an unfamiliar hospital trying to find a way out. Not the best immediately after surgery with sutures insitu! There were 4 of us trying to follow signs affixed to doors with no general staff available to guide us. We eventually found an exit at the other side of the hospital which was some considerable walk from where my husband was waiting outside.